Singapore Regulatory News

On 21 November 2024, the two-year grace period for cosmetic products to comply with the updated ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) ended. The updates were introduced during the 36th ASEAN Cosmetic Committ...

On 21 November 2024, the two-year grace period for cosmetic products to comply with the updated ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) ended. The updates were introduced during the 36th ASEAN Cosmetic Committee (ACC) meeting and its related sessions in November 2022. Products that do not meet the updated standards must be withdrawn immediately. The amendments reflect the ASEAN region’s approach to aligning with global safety standards and protecting the health of consumers in its 10 member states.

Key Updates to the ACD

• Annex II – List of substances which must not form part of the composition of cosmetic products

A consolidated list of 37 substances previously banned in the EU, has been added to Annex II of the ACD. These include entries from EU regulations (2019/831, 2019/1966, 2021/850, 2021/1902) that are not currently used in ASEAN countries. Specific compounds such as perboric acid, sodium perborate, boron compounds, octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4), and p-BMHCA have also been included in Annex II.

• Titanium Dioxide Regulation

Revised safety criteria for the use of titanium dioxide as a colouring agent (Annex IV) and as a UV filter (Annex VII) have been adopted as per EU standards.

• Salicylic Acid Regulation

New limits have been introduced for salicylic acid in the Restricted Substance List (Annexes III) and in the Preservatives list (Annex VI), used in body creams, lotions, and other specific applications.

Implications for Industry

Cosmetic manufacturers, traders, and distributors were granted a two-year grace period to reformulate, test and phase out non-compliant products. With the end of this period concluded, compliance is now mandatory, ensuring that products meet updated safety requirements.

Detailed guidelines for compliance can be found here.

On 12 November 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced regulatory updates for Dechlorane Plus and UV-328, in line with the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants...

On 12 November 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced regulatory updates for Dechlorane Plus and UV-328, in line with the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). The manufacture, import, and export of these substances, as well as products containing them will be prohibited from 26 February 2025, except for certain exempted uses. 

In a previous circular issued on 6 May 2024, the NEA informed stakeholders about the elimination of Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor and UV-328 under the Stockholm Convention. The circular outlined the phase-out schedule and urged stakeholders to prepare for the phase-out of these substances by the specified deadline.

Exemptions to Meet Critical Industry Needs

In recognition of industry feedback regarding the critical role of Dechlorane Plus and UV-328 in certain specific applications, the NEA has approved exemptions for applications in medical devices, aerospace, defence, motor vehicles and industrial machinery, among others. These exemptions which are detailed in Annex I of the update, will continue to be reviewed on a regular basis on the availability of viable alternatives, with stakeholder consultations taking place during the reviews. 

Trade Requirements for Controlled Substances

To ensure smooth implementation and compliance with the forthcoming regulations, the NEA has specified clear trade requirements for the import and export of Dechlorane Plus and UV-328. These measures are designed to enhance monitoring and facilitate proper reporting of controlled substances. The following applies:

- Specific Harmonized System (HS) and Product Codes listed in Annex II of the update must be used for all TradeNet® permit applications. 

- Permits will require approval from NEA’s Chemical Control and Management Department (CCMD). 

Additional Resources and Support

For detailed information on the management of hazardous substances in Singapore, please visit NEA’s hazardous substances page here. 

This regulatory update reflects Singapore’s commitment to international environmental standards while meeting the needs  of industry. 

On 16 August 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of the country's proposed amendments to its Environmental Protection and Management A...

On 16 August 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of the country's proposed amendments to its Environmental Protection and Management Act: Environmental Protection and Management Act (Amendment of Second Schedule) Order 2024. The amendment specifically targets the formaldehyde content of paints. The amendments are being introduced by NEA to protect public health and to comply with international standards.

Controlling Formaldehyde in Paints

The proposed regulations cover a wide range of paints and varnishes, particularly those used on ship hulls and in other industrial applications. The products to be regulated are identified by their HS headings, including anti-corrosive paints and solutions in both aqueous and non-aqueous media.

NEA focuses on the regulation of formaldehyde, a hazardous chemical known for its carcinogenic properties. Once the new regulations come into force, interior paints containing 0.01% or more formaldehyde by weight will be prohibited for import, manufacture or sale in Singapore, unless specifically intended for export or re-export. Labelling will be required for outdoor or industrial paints with the same formaldehyde content, although these restrictions will not apply to products imported or manufactured for export or re-export purposes.

Testing and Compliance

Importers and manufacturers of interior paints must be prepared to provide test reports demonstrating that the formaldehyde content of their products falls below the 0.01% threshold. These tests must be carried out by accredited laboratories recognised under international agreements, such as the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation Mutual Recognition Arrangement (ILAC MRA).

Health and Safety Objectives

The regulation of formaldehyde aims to reduce health risks associated with prolonged exposure to the chemical, which has been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Class 1 carcinogen. Exposure to formaldehyde can lead to respiratory problems and an increased risk of certain cancers. By setting these new limits, Singapore seeks to improve the protection of public health.

Implementation Timeline

Singapore plans to adopt the amendments in January 2025, with an effective date of January 2026. Stakeholders are invited to submit comments within 60 days of the notification date.

Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) has launched a public consultation on the proposed control of six mercury-added products as hazardous substances. This consultation is part of efforts t...

Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) has launched a public consultation on the proposed control of six mercury-added products as hazardous substances. This consultation is part of efforts to comply with its international obligations under the Minamata Convention. The consultation period runs from 19 August 2024 to 19 September 2024.

Background on the Minamata Convention

As a Party to the Minamata Convention, Singapore is committed to protecting human health and the environment from mercury emissions. NEA, as the Competent Authority for this Convention, regulates mercury-added products to ensure that the country meets its international obligations.

Proposed Restrictions on Mercury-Added Products

NEA intends to phase out six mercury-added products based on decisions made at the fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-5) in November 2023. The manufacture, import and export of certain fluorescent lamps will be prohibited by 1 January 2027 and 1 January 2028, depending on the product type.

Timeline for the Prohibition

From 1 January 2027, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) above 30 watts and certain linear and non-linear fluorescent lamps will be prohibited. By 1 January 2028, the restrictions will be extended to triband phosphor non-linear and linear fluorescent lamps. The legislative amendments are expected by 2026, with a two-year transition period before enforcement.

Call for Feedback

NEA is inviting public feedback on the proposal, requesting clear and concise comments with supporting examples or data. Responses can be submitted via an online form or by email by 19 September 2024. Feedback will be reviewed and taken into account when finagling the regulatory measures.

To take part in the consultation, visit the NEA’s online form or send feedback to the email provided. Full details of the proposaland submission guidelines are available on the NEA website here.

On 14 June 2024, Enterprise Singapore invited public feedback on revisions to standards on N-nitroso diethanolamine (NDELA) and cosmetic raw materials.   Enterprise Singapore Enterprise Sing...

On 14 June 2024, Enterprise Singapore invited public feedback on revisions to standards on N-nitroso diethanolamine (NDELA) and cosmetic raw materials.

Enterprise Singapore

Enterprise Singapore (ESG), a statutory board under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, manages Singapore's national standards. Through the industry-led Singapore Standards Council, ESG manages the Singapore Standardisation Programme, promoting standards to meet industry needs and government objectives. As the national accreditation body, ESG also manages the Singapore Accreditation Council (SAC), which develops accreditation schemes to support market access, security, and health and safety initiatives.

Background on NDELA

NDELA, a type of nitrosamine, is a potential human carcinogen found in cosmetics. It is formed when nitrosating agents react with diethanolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA).

DEA and TEA are both used in skin care and cosmetic formulations, as well as many other goods. Dermal studies by the US National Toxicology Program have linked these substances to carcinogenic activity in mice.

The proposed standards aim to study analytical methods for the detection and quantification of NDELA, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) combined with post-column photolysis and derivatization.

The standards released for public feedback are as follows:

• The SS ISO 10130:2017 standard outlines a method for the detection and determination of N-nitrosodiethanolamine (NDELA) in cosmetics and cosmetic raw materials using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) combined with post-column photolysis and derivatization.

• The SS ISO 12787:2017 standard defines validation criteria for chromatographic results to ensure confidence in performance, reliability and quality.

• The SS ISO 15819:2017 standard describes a single laboratory approach to chromatographic analysis.

Additional Standards for Review

ESG is also seeking public feedback on the following standards related to cosmetics:

Guidelines on Technical Definitions and Criteria for Natural and Organic Cosmetic Ingredients and Products

• Part 1: Ingredient Definitions (SS ISO 16128-1:2016): This standard provides guidance on definitions for natural and organic cosmetic ingredients. It also defines other ingredient categories necessary for the development of natural and organic products with associated restrictions.

• Part 2: Criteria for Ingredients and Products (SS ISO 16128-2:2017): This standard specifies methods for determining natural, natural origin, organic and organic origin indexes for the ingredient categories defined in ISO 16128-1.

Cosmetic Microbiology – Guidelines for the Risk Assessment and Identification of Microbiologically Low-Risk Products (SS ISO 29621:2017)

• This standard guides for cosmetic manufacturers to identify finished products that present a low risk of microbial contamination during production and use, and for which microbiological testing standards for cosmetics are not required.

These standards are under review with the intention of confirming them.

Deadline for Comments

The deadline for public comments on the mentioned standards is 15 July 2024.

On 6 May 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced revised compliance dates for Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor, and UV-328 under the Stockholm Convention.   Chemicals Added...

On 6 May 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced revised compliance dates for Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor, and UV-328 under the Stockholm Convention.

Chemicals Added to Annex A to the Stockholm Convention

At the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP) to the Stockholm Convention in May 2023, the Parties agreed to include Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor and UV-328 in Annex A for elimination, subject to certain exemptions. Following this decision, the NEA issued a circular to industry stakeholders on 24 July 2023 that the manufacture, import and export of these chemicals and products containing them would be prohibited in Singapore with effect from 12 May 2024.

Revised Compliance Date

However, the listing of Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor and UV-328 in Annex A to the Stockholm Convention was not officially communicated via a Depositary Notification until 26 February 2024. According to the rules of the Stockholm Convention, amendments to the Annexes take effect for all Parties one year after the date of notification. Consequently, the effective date for Singapore to cease the manufacture, import, and export of Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor and UV-328 has been revised to 26 February 2025 to meet the Convention deadline.

Details on Exemptions and HS Codes to Follow

The NEA will provide further details on specific exemptions in due course. Industry stakeholders are advised to refer to the annex attached to the announcement for the list of applicable Harmonized System (HS) and Product Codes required for the declaration of  import and export TradeNet® licence applications. All such applications will be subject to approval by the Chemical Control and Management Department (CCMD).

On 6 May 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced revised compliance dates for Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor, and UV-328 under the Stockholm Convention.   Chemicals Added...

On 6 May 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced revised compliance dates for Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor, and UV-328 under the Stockholm Convention.

Chemicals Added to Annex A to the Stockholm Convention

At the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP) to the Stockholm Convention in May 2023, the Parties agreed to include Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor and UV-328 in Annex A for elimination, subject to certain exemptions. Following this decision, the NEA issued a circular to industry stakeholders on 24 July 2023 that the manufacture, import and export of these chemicals and products containing them would be prohibited in Singapore with effect from 12 May 2024.

Revised Compliance Date

However, the listing of Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor and UV-328 in Annex A to the Stockholm Convention was not officially communicated via a Depositary Notification until 26 February 2024. According to the rules of the Stockholm Convention, amendments to the Annexes take effect for all Parties one year after the date of notification. Consequently, the effective date for Singapore to cease the manufacture, import, and export of Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor and UV-328 has been revised to 26 February 2025 to meet the Convention deadline.

Details on Exemptions and HS Codes to Follow

The NEA will provide further details on specific exemptions in due course. Industry stakeholders are advised to refer to the annex attached to the announcement for the list of applicable Harmonized System (HS) and Product Codes required for the declaration of  import and export TradeNet® licence applications. All such applications will be subject to approval by the Chemical Control and Management Department (CCMD).